November 2006
Beauty and the Beast
Thirty youngsters aged between 9 and 16 blossom in this clever adaptation of the much-loved fairy tale about the handsome prince who is transformed into a snarling beast. On the opening night when they delighted audiences, they also came under the scrutiny of the Coventry-based writer, Stephen Duckham, in what is billed as a World Premiere of his version of the tale. Originally he set it up as a pantomime, but BMOS Director, Alan Hackett, asked if it could be turned into a musical for the children and Duckham delivered several easy-on-the-ear songs, all different to those on the expensive professional show. There are outstanding performances from Liam Scullion (Prince Rowan and The Beast), Laura Gretton (beauty) and Elise Jennings (Horridana, the Sorceress). Fine support too comes from Sarah Hemmings (Rose Fairy), Gillian Peters (lotte Lotto), Max Williams (Panisse) and James Whinnery (Thomas), bravely carrying on using a walking stick in the second act after twisting an ankle in a backstage accident. No scenery is used and venues are neatly switched by projecting photographs on a huge screen at the rear of the stage.
Paul Marston
The Birmingham Evening Mail
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